From the dramatic western highlands to the jungle-laden ruins of Guatemala, this country has no shortage of incredible things to see. Having access to a vehicle makes it significantly easier to explore the country at your own pace.
With an improved network of roads, many hostels offering designated places to park, and the Pan-American Highway guiding your way, a road trip in Guatemala is straightforward, although things don’t always go according to plan.
Although Guatemala is relatively safe for driving, obstacles like traffic jams and last-minute protests can sometimes derail your schedule. If you can adapt to unexpected changes, driving here offers a fantastic experience full of opportunities to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
Here are our top six road trips to help you make the most out of your visit to Guatemala.
1. Sierra Madre Mountains
Best road trip for shopping local
Antigua–Lago de Atitlán; 77km (48 miles); allow two days
This popular road trip winds through traditional towns in the Sierra Madre mountain range, leading to the magnificent Lago de Atitlán. The route offers lush scenery and numerous shopping opportunities.
From Antigua, head north to Chimaltenango and connect to the Pan-American Highway. An hour-long stretch provides chances to stop at street vendors selling pottery, fruit, flowers, jewelry, and colorful textiles.
At Los Encuentros, take the RN-1 exit toward Panajachel, the largest town on the shores of Atitlán. The descent becomes more technical, taking you along narrow streets that allow a glimpse into everyday rural life.
For additional shopping, continue to Chichicastenango via Los Encuentros instead of RN-1. This detour adds about 40 minutes of driving, but the historic market, especially bustling on Thursdays and Sundays, is well worth it. Chichicastenango is home to one of the largest markets in Central America, where vibrant stalls display textiles, jade, gold, ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry.
Spend the night in Chichicastenango before heading to the lake, or shop in the morning before hitting the road again.
2. Guatemala’s Pacific Coast
Best road trip for beach lovers
Antigua–El Paredón; 100km (62 miles); allow two hours
A few hours’ drive from Antigua, El Paredón is a small fishing village popular with surfers and travelers seeking tranquility away from tourist crowds.
This beach town is an ideal getaway for families and couples. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush mangroves on the other, it provides a perfect escape from bustling Antigua, while offering plenty of outdoor activities.
Driving to El Paredón is straightforward, primarily along the Pan-American Highway. As the coast approaches, you’ll notice a change in atmosphere, with warmer and more humid air amidst stunning tropical foliage.
3. Volcano Route
Best road trip for scenery
Lago de Atitlán–Quetzaltenango; 84km (52 miles); allow three hours
This volcanic road trip begins dramatically, winding up a mountain road with stunning views of Lago de Atitlán and its trio of imposing volcanoes. The ascent takes you through breathtaking mountains to Guatemala’s second-largest city, Quetzaltenango.
At 701m (2300ft) above sea level, the city is surrounded by impressive volcanoes such as Volcán Zunil and Volcán Santa Maria, creating a landscape rich in both culture and natural beauty.
4. Central Cloud Forests
Best road trip for jungle walks, caves, and natural pools
Cobán–Río Dulce; 215km (134 miles); allow three days
A paradise for nature lovers, this drive through the Alta Verapaz region reveals cloud forests and jungles brimming with colorful birds and diverse flora, encouraging exploration.
Expect natural attractions along the way, including captivating caves, waterfalls, and the Biotopo del Quetzal National Park.
The scenic town of Lanquín, nestled among forested mountains, serves as an excellent stop. Visit the famous turquoise pools and explore the waterfalls hidden deep in the jungle, or delve into the nearby K’anba Caves for candlelit underground pools.
From Lanquín, continue south toward Río Dulce, where you’ll find Lago Izabal, perfect for a refreshing swim.
5. Sierra de Los Cuchumatanes
Best road trip for an off-road adventure
Quetzaltenango–Laguna Brava; 250km (155 miles); allow two days
This road trip offers breathtaking views as it leads to Laguna Brava, surrounded by the majestic Cuchumatanes mountains. The destination is best accessed by a 4×4 vehicle, especially for the adventurous.
Parts of this route may be challenging, requiring confidence in driving skills. From Quetzaltenango, the journey is mostly straightforward until the last hours, where you’ll navigate through rivers and rocky terrain.
The effort is rewarded with stunning views of a crystal-clear turquoise lake, ideal for camping or renting a cabin for an overnight stay amidst nature’s splendor.
6. Guatemala’s Northeastern Route
Best road trip for exploring jungle ruins
Antigua–Tikal; 535km (332 miles); allow one week
One of the most rewarding journeys in Guatemala is to the Petén region, home to the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, buried deep within the jungle.
This drive is best enjoyed with an overnight stop in Río Dulce where you can explore Lago Izabal and the unique hot waterfalls. The journey from Río Dulce to Flores, the town closest to Tikal, takes around three to four hours.
In Flores, visitors find it convenient to explore the surrounding area for a few days. The drive to Tikal from Flores takes just 1.5 hours, allowing easy access to lesser-known yet fascinating archaeological sites nearby.
This article provides an overview of top road trips to experience Guatemala’s beauty, culture, and adventure to the fullest.
